Rosa

Tell us why you became a teacher

A young man once shared with me that if he had someone in his life to inspire him and provide guidance, he likely would have finished school. He grew up in the projects, where each day felt like a fight for survival. He told me that had he had someone like me to mentor and encourage him, he might have gone on to become a professional football player. His words were the spark that motivated me to make a difference for those who don’t have someone to turn to. He became my "why!”

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable moments was receiving a note from a student who was initially scared of me because of rumors. Over time, they realized I genuinely cared and worked hard to make learning fun. They thanked me for building a relationship with them and helping them feel supported. This reminded me that while I’m known for being tough, my goal is to create a safe, engaging space. The “ah-ha” moments are what make it all worth it, and that note reaffirmed the impact I’m having.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I had $25,000, I would put it toward buying a house. As a single mom of three, life has been tough, but securing a stable home would provide us with a sense of security and a fresh start. Having a place to call our own would not only give us more space but also a foundation to build a better future. It’s something I’ve worked hard for, and this amount would make a significant difference in helping me achieve that goal.